What is plate tectonics?

Published: Jul 22 2011 03:46:28 PM EDT

The theory of plate tectonics is a interesting story of continents drifting from place to place breaking apart, colliding, and grinding against each other.

The plate tectonic theory is supported by a wide range of evidence that considers the earth's crust and upper mantle to be composed of several large, thin, relatively rigid plates that move relative to one another.

The plates are all moving in different directions and at different speeds.